Noël Coward's classic comedy Private Lives opens to massive acclaim at The Gielgud Theatre
by Oliver Mitford on Wednesday 10 July 2013, 2:13 pm in Upcoming and New Shows
Following a sell-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre, expectations were high for Jonathan Kent's explosive new production of Private Lives, staring Toby Stephens and Anna Chancellor as the glamorous but reckless divorcées. After the star-studded opening night last Wednesday that saw the likes of Graham Norton, Dominic West and Tom Hollander grace the red carpet, the reviews are in and they do not disappoint!
The Daily Telegraph gave five stars and called the revival 'superb'. Time Out awarded four stars and said that Stephens and Chancellor were ‘utterly delightful, a kinetic double act’. The Evening Standard called the production ‘a deliciously fresh revival’ and The Times said it was ‘Head-clutchingly funny’. With positive reviews across the board and high praise for the electric chemistry between the productions leading couple, Private Lives is fast becoming the must-see show of the summer.
Private Lives follows the story of Elyot (Toby Stephens) and Amanda (Anna Chancellor), two rich and reckless divorcées who, after five years apart, rekindle their passionate love affair whilst on honeymoon with their new spouses. As they fling themselves headlong into a tempestuous romance, the couple’s present partners are left by the wayside and hilarity ensues. Noël Coward’s witty and provoking comedy was first seen back in 1930, but as can be seen by the critics’ responses to this new production, it seems as fresh and as exciting as if it was written yesterday.
Toby Stephens is no stranger to the stage, having performed in Danton's Death (National Theatre), The Real Thing (The Old Vic), A Doll's House (Donmar Warehouse) and A Streetcar Named Desire (West End). He is also well known for his screen work in films such as Vexed, Jane Eyre and Die Another Day.
Anna Chancellor is probably best known for her role as 'Duck Face' in the iconic romantic comedy Four Weddings and a Funeral. However, her prolific stage work also includes South Downs and The Browning Version (Chichester and West End), The Last of the Duchess (Hampstead Theatre), The Observer, Never So Good and Stanley (National Theatre and Broadway).
Private Lives is booking until 21 September 2013 at London's Gielgud Theatre. This is a strictly limited run, so get booking now to experience this extravagant and gloriously entertaining evening at the theatre.